Does Epoxy go bad in 3 years?

[SkiDaddy]

I have half a container each of West Systems epoxy & hardener (with metering pumps screwed into the containers) in the garage that have been there for 3 years in Florida, so max temperatures should have been 95 degrees or so. Does this stuff go bad or lose strength?

I'm gonna put Tubbies on using the Yamaslut method & only want to do it once.:woot:

 

[shepster]

Hi, epoxy will probally be ok if it hasnt seperated but i bet the pumps are shot, they normally gum up.

 

[demolition_x]

try it on a piece of glass.

 

[the only couch rider]

i wouldn't risk it.... get new stuff

 

[Matt_E]

The epoxy itself has very long shelf life.
Some hardeners (phenolic?) have a short shelf life. I don't think West Systems uses those hardeners.

In short, you're good.

 

[SkiDaddy]

Thanks for the replies. I do think I'll mix up a test batch.:woot:

 

[meatball]

I've used West that was at least 6 years old, without problems. As they age the hardners start not to clear as 'clear' however they cure the same. Do a test piece, my epoxy was stored in MD temperate temperatures (anywhere from 0 degrees to 85-90 degrees throughout the seasons)

 

[WFO Speedracer]

My understanding from the West Systems manual is that it will change color from being in the can that long but the epoxy will still be 100% usable.

 

[djyox]

From what I know, at worst, it wont be clear anymore, it will just yellow a bit... But no big deal if your going to be painting over it, or laying mat ontop of it...


I'd use it.. And if your going to throw it away, let me get you a prepaid box to ship them to me in so I can save a few bucks...

 

[gj_fx1]

When very old the hardener actually turns red, so your work comes out pink.
West says its still ok to use, if you don't mind the color.